Get to know your kɔɪli butters (Part VI): Bergamot oil

Hi there koilies!

It's been a minute since we gave you the lowdown on some of our koili ingredients so today we will be tackling one of the essential oils found in your butters - bergamot oil. This oil comes from the bergamot tree which blossoms oval green leaves, white flowers and a yellow citrus fruit that is not as bitter as a lemon but not as sweet as an orange.

I got to know the fruit very well when I stayed on a farm in Limpopo for a few months and had a row of the trees at my gleeful disposal. You bet I was sitting on the stoep like a boss every morning, sipping on my rooibos tea infused with the freshly squeezed juice. The oil is derived from the peel of the fruit and you probably didn't know that it is used in the making of Earl Grey tea.

This stuff can make you happy too. Bergamot is a natural anti-depressant and relaxant and has been used for centuries as a mood enhancer and to calm the nervous system. Nuff said.

It regenerates skin cells, helping to keep dull complexions at bay and is also known to distribute pigment, encouraging an even, toned complexion. It also has powerful antiseptic and antibiotic properties that helps in the removal of bacteria from skin and hair. Together, these properties can heal scars and blemishes. It can also be used to soothe itching in the event of allergies and also psoriasis, eczema, cold sores, cuts and cracked heels.

On hair, bergamot oil gets rid of microbes and infections and creates a clean base for your scalp. It makes for a great massage oil for the scalp and can contribute to stimulating hair growth. It can also be used to reduce frizz and straighten hair. It adds sheen and volume and can help in repairing damage.

A word of caution: Bergamot oil is very powerful and should be diluted to avoid skin irritation. It also contains phototoxic properties and should be kept away from direct sunlight. For these reasons, it should also not be used on babies under 6 months.

With the disclaimers out of the way, we couldn't resist adding a few drops of this fresh and zesty oil into both your koili butters at safe ratios so you can enjoy the many benefits it has to offer. Have you tried bergamot oil on our skin or hair? Has it helped in calming you after a stressful day? Do tell.

3
comments
:

The tea enthuse I am, I was like, I know that! I used a hand wash and hand cream with it and orange. It was magical. I totally felt calm and relaxed and very so still. Thanks for letting us know more about the butters. Can't wait to start using mine!

The tea enthuse I am, I was like, I know that! I used a hand wash and hand cream with it and orange. It was magical. I totally felt calm and relaxed and very so still. Thanks for letting us know more about the butters. Can't wait to start using mine!

Thanks for your comment, Dineo. I really thought I knew my teas but clearly not! *Sips and hides* Bergamot is without a doubt one of our favourite essential oils and there was no way we were not going to add it to the butters :) You should definitely get a subtle whiff of it as you rub the butter in your hair and skin and we hope you enjoy it. With love, peace and fro's, Wunmi.